A YOUNG photographer’s snap of his pet cat has seen him awarded in a national competition.

Dunmow Broadcast: Ben Hickling, from Stebbing, came third in the first photography competition he ever entered.Ben Hickling, from Stebbing, came third in the first photography competition he ever entered. (Image: Archant)

Ben Hickling, 14, of Stebbing High Street, entered a picture of his cat, Tinky, for the annual Petsavers competition under the category of ‘Priceless moments’.

The Helena Romanes School pupil has been a keen photographer for over three years and entered the competition in November, but was only told he had won the award last month.

The photo, titled ‘Hugs anyone?’, came third in the under-16 catergory and Ben said: “I am over the moon, especially with it being the first time I’ve ever entered a competition.

“I didn’t think I was going to get anywhere close to getting a prize so I was very proud when I found out.”

The photo won Ben £50, and will be exhibited at Petsavers’ conference in Birmingham next month, to which he has been invited.

Petsavers is a charity funding vital clinical research into the prevention, treatment and/or cure of illnesses and conditions affecting pets.

For more information or to view Ben’s photo online, visit petsavers.org.uk